Flags of the Confederate States of America
Print on paper, likely a commemorative offset lithograph or reproduction print. • Anonymous graphic designer/illustrator; produced for the commercial souvenir or historical memorabilia market.
Style & Movement
Historical Commemorative / American Ephemera.
Medium & Technique
Color printing (likely offset lithography) on light-weight paper or cardstock; graphic design utilizing typography and heraldic illustration.
Creation Period
Late 20th century (c. 1970–1990) based on typography, the inclusion of a modern copyright symbol, and the clean graphic style.
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 x 10 inches or 11 x 14 inches; vertical portrait format.
Subject Description
A central arrangement of four Confederate flags (the Stars and Bars, the Battle Flag, the Stainless Banner, and the Blood-Stained Banner) crossed with two palm or laurel fronds. The dates '1861' and '1865' are prominent, and the bottom features descriptive text for each flag.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible foxing (brown spotting) throughout the paper and some minor discoloration/yellowing consistent with age or poor storage.
Estimated Market Value
$20 - $50 USD.
Auction Estimate
$10 - $30 USD.
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a gift shop, historical society, or civil war reenactment venue; modern copyright symbol indicates a commercial reproduction rather than a period artifact.
Art Historical Significance
Low art historical significance; it is a mass-produced educational or commemorative print rather than an original work of art or a primary period document.
Notable Features
Includes a small copyright symbol (©) near the base of the stems, confirming its status as a modern commercial reproduction.
Condition Issues
Significant foxing/spotting due to humidity or acidic wooden backing; possible light fading of the red and blue pigments.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from current frame to check for acidic backing; remount using acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to prevent further deterioration.